LGBTQ rights have had a long and storied history in the United Kingdom. Of course, there have been numerous anti-LGBTQ laws in the U.K. over the last several centuries. But today, the U.K. stands out as one of the most gay-friendly places in the world. They gave us Adele after all.

Same-sex marriage was recently legalized throughout England, Scotland and Wales, while Northern Ireland allows civil partnerships. The Equality Act of 2010 is one of the most powerful anti-discrimination bills on the planet, protecting the rights of gay people across the U.K.

If you’re gay, you’ll find plenty of things to do and places to go in the United Kingdom. London and Manchester offer a thriving gay community with countless bars, hotspots, and clubs. Don’t forget that the British version of Queer as Folk took place on Canal Street, still widely known as one of the hottest gay destinations on the planet. You can also swing by the gay pride parade in Brighton, or grab a beer at the oldest gay bar in Edinburgh.

Go ahead, let your hair down and break out your favorite sequined tube top. The U.K. is a great place to be your queerest self.